International Journal of Biblical Research Studies
type: channel
description: The International Journal of Biblical Research Studies is a pioneering, peer-reviewed Scripture-governed academic journal dedicated to advancing the frontiers of Biblical Research as a distinct, rigorous, and faith-governed scholarly discipline. Founded and led by Professor Dele A. Ilesanmi — the world's first Professor of Biblical Research Studies, Biblical Education, Faith Theology, and Theoretical Theology — the journal serves as the foremost global platform for original inquiry at the intersection of Scripture, theology, and academic excellence. IJBRS unapologetically positions the Bible as the supreme authority in research, championing a paradigm shift from conventional secular research frameworks towards Scripture-governed methodologies such as Scriptural Review, Faith Theology, and Grounded Truth Theory. It publishes groundbreaking theoretical, analytical, and applied works that illuminate the Word of God with intellectual depth, doctrinal precision, and academic integrity. The journal welcomes contributions from theologians, biblical Christian educators, biblical research scholars, and student researchers across the global church, covering areas including biblical theology, faith theology, theoretical theology, biblical Christian education, biblical research methodology, grounded truth theory, scriptural review, scripture-governed interdisciplinary research, and the relationship between divine truth and contemporary human experience. All papers are Scripture-governed without limiting the different methods from other fields. Published under the auspices of the ChristoPress Institute of Biblical Research Studies and Theological Education, IJBRS stands as a testament to the conviction that rigorous scholarship and unwavering biblical faith are not in conflict — they are inseparable. Where Scripture Governs Scholarship. Where Faith Meets Research.
publisher: ChristoPress Institute of Biblical Research Studies and Theological Education (CIBREST)
language: en
publication name: International Journal of Biblical Research Studies
issn: 3092-8885
items: Writing Effective Abstracts in Scripture-Governed Research: A Biblical Research Scholar’s Guide
items: Writing Effective Keywords for Academic Papers in Scripture-Governed Research: A Biblical Research Scholar’s Guide
items: Faith-Theology as a Catalyst for Innovation: A Grounded Truth Theory Study of Jacob’s Strategy (Gen 30–31) in Zimbabwe
items: What Is Bibliogogy? A Scripture-Governed Discipline of Biblical Education
items: A Guide to Reviewing Scripture-Governed Research Papers: Why Some Theological and Biblical Research Papers Fail the Test
items: Assessing the Biblical Legitimacy of Polygamy and Polygyny: A Scriptural Realist Approach
items: Beyond Seeing and Thinking: A Scripture-Governed Approach to Knowledge in Biblical Research Studies
items: Grounded Truth Theory: A Scripturally Grounded Methodology for Theological Research
items: Scriptural Realism: A Theo-Theoretical Framework for a Scripture-Governed Ontology, Epistemology, and Research Paradigm in Biblical Research Studies
items: Grounded Truth Theory as a Scripture-Governed Research Framework for Biblical-Theological Inquiry: Discerning Divine Truth Inductively and Deductively
items: Sola Scriptura in Nigerian Pentecostal Theology: Continuity and Divergence from Classical Reformation Theology
items: Àbá Rẹ Á Gbè Ọ́: An Ekiti Prayerful Paternal Blessing—From Cultural-Linguistic Re-signification to Theological Semantic Transfiguration within Faith Theology
items: A Theological Reflection on the Yoruba Cultural Understanding of Ìgbàyí láàárọ̀ and its Relevance to the Christian's Understanding of the Passage of Time
items: From Secular Empiricism to Divine Revelation: Reclaiming Theological Truth through Grounded Truth Theory (GTT)
items: Reconciling Divine Revelation and Empirical Inquiry: A Critical Examination of Science and the Bible
items: Introducing Grounded Truth Theory: A Scripturally Grounded Methodology for Testing Theological Claims in Biblical-Theological Research
items: Bibliogogy: A Scripture-Governed Theory and Practice of Teaching and Learning in Biblical Christian Education

Writing Effective Abstracts in Scripture-Governed Research: A Biblical Research Scholar’s Guide
type: item
description: Writing effective abstracts for academic papers is a fundamental aspect of academic research, yet it remains one of the most challenging components of scholarly writing in Scripture-Governed Research. Many students, authors, and researchers produce abstracts that are either incomplete, excessively descriptive, or inconsistent with the completed manuscript, thereby reducing the visibility and scholarly impact of their research. The research is anchored on Proverbs 25:11, which affirms the importance Scripture attaches to brevity. This study, therefore, examines the principles and practices of writing effective abstracts in Scripture-Governed Research. In this research note, the author employs the Scriptural Review Method, supported by conceptual and methodological analysis, and illustrative model. The findings reveal that an effective abstract should faithfully summarise the completed research by clearly presenting its background, research problem, aim, methodology, main findings, conclusion, and scholarly contribution. The study concludes that a well-written abstract enhances the accessibility, credibility, and publication potential of biblical research while promoting theological integrity and academic excellence. This research note contributes to Biblical Research Studies and Scripture-Governed Research by providing a practical, Scripture-governed framework for preparing high-quality abstracts suitable for research projects, theses, dissertations, journal articles, conference papers, and scholarly books.
subject: Biblical Research Notes
  topic: section
subject: Biblical Research Notes
  topic: category
subject:
  topic: keywords
  value: Biblical Research Studies, Scripture-Governed Research, writing effective abstracts, biblical research scholar’s guide, scriptural review, methodological research note, provisional abstract, final abstract.
creator: Dele Alaba ILESANMI
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 International Journal of Biblical Research Studies
date: 2026-07-28
publication date: 2026-07-28
doi: 10.5281/zenodo.21611482

Writing Effective Keywords for Academic Papers in Scripture-Governed Research: A Biblical Research Scholar’s Guide
type: item
description: Keywords are an integral part of good academic writing in Scripture-Governed Research (SGR) but are often overlooked by some biblical research scholars and authors. Despite their significant role in enhancing the discoverability, accessibility, and scholarly impact of research publications, many of these authors give little attention to their selection and presentation. In Scripture-Governed Research (SGR), keyword selection requires both academic precision and theological faithfulness. The study is anchored on Ecclesiastes 12:10, which affirms the importance Scripture attaches to choosing appropriate, precise, true, meaningful, and acceptable words. Thus, the article examines the principles and best practices for writing effective keywords for academic papers in Scripture-Governed Research (SGR). The paper argues that carefully selected keywords not only facilitate indexing in academic databases and search engines but also improve the visibility, retrieval, and citation of scholarly works. It concludes by proposing practical guidelines for selecting keywords that enhance scholarly visibility while maintaining methodological integrity to assist biblical researchers, theological educators, students, and journal authors in developing accurate, relevant, and effective keywords that faithfully represent the content and contribution of their research.
subject: Biblical Research Notes
  topic: section
subject: Biblical Research Notes
  topic: category
subject: Keywords, Scripture-Governed Research, academic writing, scholarly publishing, biblical research methodology, indexing, search engine, academic databases.
  topic: keywords
creator: Dele Alaba Ilesanmi
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 International Journal of Biblical Research Studies
date: 2026-07-27
publication date: 2026-07-27
doi: 10.5281/zenodo.21611042

Faith-Theology as a Catalyst for Innovation: A Grounded Truth Theory Study of Jacob’s Strategy (Gen 30–31) in Zimbabwe
type: item
description: This study investigates the role of Faith Theology as a catalyst for entrepreneurial innovation through an examination of Jacob's livestock strategy in Genesis 30–31 and its relevance to the contemporary Zimbabwean marketplace. While existing entrepreneurship literature has extensively explored innovation from economic, managerial, psychological, and sociological perspectives, limited scholarly attention has been given to faith as a legitimate epistemic source of entrepreneurial knowledge and innovation. This study addresses this gap by employing a qualitative, inductive Grounded Truth Theory methodology, integrating scriptural review, critical exegesis, theological reflection, and contextual application as its primary methodological approaches. Through a seven-dimensional analytical matrix, the research examines how Jacob's entrepreneurial success emerged from the interaction of divine revelation, spiritual discernment, human agency, ethical stewardship, strategic implementation, and transformational outcomes. The study argues that Jacob's innovation was neither merely a product of human ingenuity nor solely a miraculous event but a faith-informed entrepreneurial process in which revealed knowledge was translated into practical economic strategy. By contextualising these findings within Zimbabwe's challenging economic environment, the research develops a Faith-Based Entrepreneurial Innovation Framework that demonstrates how faith-derived knowledge can inform opportunity recognition, strategic decision-making, resource management, and business resilience. The study contributes to the growing discourse on faith and entrepreneurship by proposing a biblically grounded theory of innovation that integrates theological insights with marketplace practice. It concludes that Faith Theology functions as a significant catalyst for entrepreneurial innovation by providing an alternative epistemological foundation through which entrepreneurs may navigate uncertainty, create value…
subject: Scripture-Governed Interdisciplinary Research Article
  topic: section
subject: Faith Theology, Entrepreneurial Innovation, Grounded Truth Theory, Scriptural Review, Jacob’s Livestock Strategy (Genesis 30–31), Zimbabwe, Faith-Based Entrepreneurship.
  topic: keywords
creator: Dele Alaba Ilesanmi
creator: Ketayi Asani
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 International Journal of Biblical Research Studies
date: 2026-06-30
publication date: 2026-06-30
doi: 10.5281/zenodo.21075127

What Is Bibliogogy? A Scripture-Governed Discipline of Biblical Education
type: item
description: The emergence of Scripture-governed educational theorisation within Biblical Education has created the need for a comprehensive educational discipline that derives its ontology, epistemology, methodology, and teleology directly from divine revelation. While secular education is governed by pedagogy, andragogy, and heutagogy, Biblical Education requires a distinct educational discipline rooted in Scripture rather than humanistic educational assumptions. This study develops Bibliogogy as a Scripture-governed discipline of Biblical Education that integrates four foundational instructional realities within Scripture: Theogogy, Christogogy, Pneumagogy, and Apostogogy. It argues that existing fields such as Biblical Studies, Christian Education, etc. remain fragmented and lack a unified Scriptural epistemology governing biblical instruction. This paper proposes Bibliogogy as a Scripture-governed educational discipline that systematically studies, develops, and applies biblical principles of teaching, learning, interpretation, application, spiritual formation, and faith transmission. Building upon the foundational works of Dele Alaba Ilesanmi on Theogogy, Christogogy, Pneumagogy, Bibliogogy, Faith Theology, and Scripture-governed learning theories, this study argues that Bibliogogy constitutes the all-encompassing educational discipline of Biblical Education. The study adopts a sola Scriptura methodology employing scriptural review, theo-theoretical construction, critical exegesis, and theological reflection. Findings reveal that Bibliogogy functions as an integrative educational discipline that unifies divine instructional activities under a coherent biblical educational framework. The study recommends, among others, that Bibliogogy should be established as an academic discipline in our theological schools, and concludes that Bibliogogy offers a distinct and comprehensive educational paradigm capable of providing theoretical, methodological, and practical foundations for …
subject: Scriptural Research Articles
  topic: section
subject: bibliogogy, biblical education, theogogy, christogogy, pneumagogy, apostogogy, faith theology, scripture-governed education, biblical learning theory.
  topic: keywords
creator: Dele Alaba Ilesanmi
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 International Journal of Biblical Research Studies
date: 2026-06-30
publication date: 2026-06-30
doi: 10.5281/zenodo.21073550

A Guide to Reviewing Scripture-Governed Research Papers: Why Some Theological and Biblical Research Papers Fail the Test
type: item
description: This study develops a comprehensive, Scripture-governed framework for reviewing biblical research papers within the emerging discipline of Biblical Research Studies (BRS), which covers theological studies, biblical studies, biblical Christian education, and all Scripture-governed interdisciplinary studies. It argues that conventional academic review systems—largely grounded in empirical, rational, social construction, or literature-based epistemologies—are insufficient for evaluating theological research that claims divine authority. The paper proposes that Scriptural Review must function as the primary evaluative method, supported by exegetical analysis, canonical correlation, and theo-theoretical coherence – a diagnostic model for assessing research integrity in biblical scholarship. Through a structured methodological framework, this study establishes vital criteria for assessing Scripture-governed research, including Scriptural Authority, Exegetical Soundness, Theological Coherence, Methodological Integrity, Revelation-Based Insight, Verifiability, and Christological Centrality. The research concludes that a Scripture-governed review paradigm not only preserves doctrinal integrity but also advances authentic biblical knowledge and spiritual formation within the Church and academy. The study adopts a Scriptural Review methodology grounded in the King James Version (KJV) and articulated through the Seven Laws of Scriptural Review. This paper identifies common failure patterns, including canonical fragmentation, exegetical distortion, tradition-dominance, and theoretical supremacy over Scripture. It concludes by proposing a corrective framework rooted in Bibliogogy—a Scripture-governed epistemology of learning, interpretation, and evaluation in theological research. The study recommends, among others, that all theological and biblical studies works should be evaluated through the lens of “A Scripture-Governed Peer Review Approach (SGPR)” to position Scripture as th…
subject: Scriptural Research Articles
  topic: section
subject: guide to reviewing scripture-governed research papers, theological research papers, biblical research papers, laws of scriptural review,
  topic: keywords
creator: Dele Alaba Ilesanmi
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 International Journal of Biblical Research Studies
date: 2026-06-30
publication date: 2026-06-30
doi: 10.5281/zenodo.21072486

Assessing the Biblical Legitimacy of Polygamy and Polygyny: A Scriptural Realist Approach
type: item
description: The biblical legitimacy of polygamy and polygyny remains one of the most contested questions in Christian theological ethics and biblical interpretation in recent times. While the Scriptures record multiple instances of plural marriages among patriarchs, kings, and covenantal figures, the theological significance of these narratives remains debated. Does the biblical presence of polygamy and polygyny imply divine approval, or does Scripture merely describe such arrangements without prescribing them as normative? This study addresses that question through a Scriptural Realist Approach, integrating the Delean Laws of Scriptural Review, the Grounded Truth Theory (GTT)’s Seven-Dimensional Analytical Matrix, and the Law of Scriptural Descriptive–Prescriptive Distinction as complementary hermeneutical and theological tools. The study argues that the mere biblicality of polygamy or polygyny does not automatically establish its biblical legitimacy. Through scriptural review, canonical synthesis, and theological discernment, this paper demonstrates that plural marriage in Scripture is predominantly descriptive rather than prescriptive and that the canonical trajectory of Scripture consistently points towards monogamous covenantal union as God’s creational, Christological, and eschatological ideal. By distinguishing divine accommodation from divine endorsement, this study seeks to provide a Scripture-governed framework for evaluating difficult ethical issues and contributes to the advancement of Scriptural Review as a distinct biblical research methodology. Keywords: biblical legitimacy of polygamy and polygyny, a scriptural realist approach, delean law of scriptural descriptive-prescriptive distinction, casuistic law, apodictic law, delean laws of scriptural review, delean grounded truth theory (gtt).
subject: Scriptural Research Articles
  topic: section
subject: Biblical-Theological Inquiry
  topic: category
subject:
  topic: keywords
  value: biblical legitimacy of polygamy and polygyny, a scriptural realist approach, delean law of scriptural descriptive-prescriptive distinction, casuistic law, apodictic law, delean laws of scriptural review, delean grounded truth theory (gtt).
creator: Dele Alaba Ilesanmi
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 International Journal of Biblical Research Studies
date: 2026-05-22
publication date: 2026-05-22
starting page: 1
ending page: 23
doi: 10.5281/zenodo.20344506

Beyond Seeing and Thinking: A Scripture-Governed Approach to Knowledge in Biblical Research Studies
type: item
description: This research note introduces Scriptural Realism, a theological framework proposed recently by Dele A. Ilesanmi, “Scriptural Realism: A Theo-Theoretical Framework for a Scripture-Governed Ontology, Epistemology, and Research Paradigm in Biblical Research Studies,” that establishes divine revelation as the supreme foundation for biblical research. The author critiques empiricism, rationalism, and constructivism, arguing that while these secular methodologies offer useful tools for observation and logic, they are fundamentally incapable of originating or determining spiritual truth. Instead, the source advocates for a revelation-governed epistemology where the Bible serves as the final arbiter of reality and the primary source of valid knowledge. By reorienting academic inquiry towards a Christocentric methodology, the framework ensures that research is governed by Scripture rather than human experience or social consensus. Finally, the work asserts that true understanding begins with faith and God’s self-disclosure rather than mere human discovery.
subject: Biblical Research Notes
  topic: section
subject: Biblical Research Studies
  topic: category
subject: Biblical-Theological Theory
  topic: category
subject: scriptural realism, theo-theoretical framework, scripture-governed research, ontology, epistemology, research paradigm, biblical research studies, christocentrically.
  topic: keywords
creator: Prof Dele Alaba Ilesanmi
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 International Journal of Biblical Research Studies
date: 2026-05-18
publication date: 2026-05-18
starting page: 1
ending page: 12
doi: 10.5281/zenodo.20273429

Grounded Truth Theory: A Scripturally Grounded Methodology for Theological Research
type: item
description: Developed by Dele Alaba Ilesanmi, Grounded Truth Theory (GTT) is a research methodology that prioritizes biblical revelation over secular empirical data. This paradigm serves as a faith-based alternative to traditional social science models, asserting that divine truth is a fixed reality found in Scripture rather than a human construct. At its core, GTT utilizes a seven-dimensional matrix — covering ontological, epistemological, and practical domains — to systematically test and validate theological claims. By integrating academic rigour with the principles of Sola Scriptura and Scriptural Realism, GTT provides a structured framework for resolving doctrinal conflicts and ensuring spiritual discernment. Ultimately, the model bridges the gap between scholarly inquiry and church practice, offering a replicable process to verify orthodoxy and apply biblical principles to modern life. The purpose of this research note is to review Delean Grounded Truth Theory for a clearer understanding of the concept and to provide significant recommendations for stakeholder implementation.
subject: Biblical Research Notes
  topic: section
subject: delean grounded truth theory, scripturally grounded methodology, theological research, scriptural realism, seven-dimensional matrix
  topic: keywords
creator: Dele Alaba Ilesanmi
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 International Journal of Biblical Research Studies
date: 2026-04-30
publication date: 2026-04-30
starting page: 1
ending page: 14
doi: 10.5281/zenodo.19910262

Scriptural Realism: A Theo-Theoretical Framework for a Scripture-Governed Ontology, Epistemology, and Research Paradigm in Biblical Research Studies
type: item
description: The current structure of epistemic authority is dominated by three classical philosophical traditions, such as empiricism, rationalism, and constructivism, which have shaped modern research paradigms, including theology and biblical studies. These paradigms often operate independently of divine revelation, treating Scripture as secondary data, while non-Scripture-governed literature and methodologies function as primary interpretive authority. The purpose of this study is to develop Scriptural Realism as a theo-theoretical framework for constructing a Scripture-governed ontology, epistemology, and research paradigm within Biblical Research Studies. The paper argues that Scriptural Realism, as proposed in this study, asserts that reality is objectively created and sustained by God, partially accessible through general revelation, but fully and authoritatively known through divine revelation as inscripturated in Scripture and interpreted Christocentrically. The study avers that while secular research paradigms such as empiricism, rationalism, and constructivism offer partial accounts of knowledge, they remain insufficient for theological inquiry due to their exclusion of divine revelation as epistemic authority. The research argues for a reconfiguration of these foundational constructs under the authority of Scripture, proposing that reality (ontology) is God-defined, knowledge (epistemology) is divinely revealed, and research paradigms must be faith-governed. The research adopts a Scripture-governed methodology, employing Scriptural Review as its primary methodological tool, together with exegetical and conceptual analysis. It concludes that Scriptural Realism provides a coherent, Christocentric, and revelation-governed framework in which ontology, epistemology, and methodology are unified under Scripture as the final interpretive authority.
subject: Theo-theoretical Papers & Conceptual Framework
  topic: section
subject: scriptural realism, a theo-theoretical framework, a scripture-governed ontology, epistemology, research paradigm, biblical research studies, scriptural review.
  topic: keywords
creator: Dele Alaba Ilesanmi
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 International Journal of Biblical Research Studies
date: 2026-04-30
publication date: 2026-04-30
starting page: 1
ending page: 17
doi: 10.5281/zenodo.19890587

Grounded Truth Theory as a Scripture-Governed Research Framework for Biblical-Theological Inquiry: Discerning Divine Truth Inductively and Deductively
type: item
description: Grounded Truth Theory (GTT) is a faith-governed research theory designed purposely to guide biblical-theological inquiry. This paper aims to introduce GTT as a biblical-theological research model with methodological functions, utilising two epistemic modes—inductive and deductive modes—to discern, test, and validate theological truths from a biblical frame of reference. Unlike secular models, which often rely on human reasoning or social data, GTT prioritises Scripture as the primary source, standard, and validator of truth. The theory asserts that all truth claims must be inductively derived, deductively tested, and validated from Scripture under the authority of divine revelation. The study introduces GTT, outlining its philosophical and theological underpinnings, highlighting its methodological function, and demonstrating its practical application across canonical texts. By integrating scriptural review, critical exegesis, and canonical coherence, the study adopts biblical-theological methodology grounded in the principles of sola scriptura. GTT enables scholars to construct theological knowledge in a manner faithful to divine authority while remaining rigorous, systematic, and academically credible. The work positions GTT as a framework for biblical research, displaying its relevance, applicability, and potential to advance faith-centred scholarship. The findings reveal that GTT prevents scriptural distortion, supports scriptural fidelity, and facilitates theological understanding. The paper recommends GTT for all theological institutions, churches, and Christian ministries.
subject: Theo-theoretical Papers & Conceptual Framework
  topic: section
subject: grounded truth theory (gtt), faith-governed research theory, biblical-theological research, inductive and deductive approaches, scriptural review, theological truth claims.
  topic: keywords
creator: Dele Alaba Ilesanmi
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 International Journal of Biblical Research Studies
date: 2026-04-15
publication date: 2026-04-15
doi: 10.5281/zenodo.18817956

Sola Scriptura in Nigerian Pentecostal Theology: Continuity and Divergence from Classical Reformation Theology
type: item
description: Sola scriptura is a doctrine that affirms that the scripture alone is the supreme authority in matters of faith and practices. The doctrine of sola scriptura stands as a foundational principle of the Protestant Reformation. From the memory lane, within the sixteenth-century European ecclesia context, sola scriptura has been received, reinterpreted, and sometimes contested in contemporary Christianity. The thrust of this paper, therefore, is to examine how sola scriptura is understood and practiced within Nigerian Pentecostal theology. The paper argues that Nigerian Pentecostalism demonstrates both continuity with classical reformation theology through its high regard for the Bible and significant divergence through its strong emphasis on prophetic revelation, charismatic experience, and authoritative leadership. The paper adopts a historical-theological and contextual approach to unearth the historical roots of sola scriptura, outlining its classical Reformation meaning and dissecting its reinterpretation within Nigerian Pentecostal movements. The paper concludes by suggesting a formative structure for rearticulating sola scriptura in Nigerian Pentecostal theology in a way that affirms scripture’s competency while critically engaging charismatic experience.
subject: Scriptural Research Articles
  topic: section
subject: sola scriptura, nigerian pentecostalism, biblical hermeneutics, reformation theology, prophetic revelation
  topic: keywords
creator: Silas Babatunde Akande
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 International Journal of Biblical Research Studies
date: 2026-04-15
publication date: 2026-04-15
starting page: 1
ending page: 15
doi: 10.5281/zenodo.18462456

Àbá Rẹ Á Gbè Ọ́: An Ekiti Prayerful Paternal Blessing—From Cultural-Linguistic Re-signification to Theological Semantic Transfiguration within Faith Theology
type: item
description: Christianity emerged in a complex Greco-Roman and Semitic linguistic environment, yet it articulated a fundamentally novel theological worldview utilising culturally inherited language. Christianity is not linguistically neutral; it appropriates culturally grounded and philosophically inclined words, which are semantically re-signified through divine revelation. This paper argues that Christianity did not merely assimilate pre-existing cultural and philosophical concepts but redefined them through divine revelation. The research examines the Ekiti axiom, Àbá rẹ á gbè ọ́, as a prayerful paternal blessing, investigating its theological and cultural implications from a biblical frame of reference. Thus, the main thrust of this study is to demystify this expression and appropriate it in local parlance, Christianity, politics, commerce, and daily activities. The paper utilises scriptural review as its primary methodological approach, while employing a theo-theoretical framework rooted in faith theology. By employing the Cultural-Linguistic Re-signification Analysis Theory (CLRAT) and the Theory of Theological Semantic Transfiguration (TTST) to elucidate culturally embedded words, the study illustrates how culturally inherited linguistic forms can be preserved in identity while experiencing authoritative conceptual transformation through divine revelation. The paper argues that semantic re-signification in Christianity functions through semantic broadening and semantic shift, both of which are sufficiently elucidated by the CLRAT and the TTST, as proposed by the author. The findings reveal that Christianity does not exist in a linguistic vacuum; instead, it uses existing linguistic forms and changes them through revelation. The study concludes that the Ekiti expression, "Àbá rẹ á gbè ọ́," does not constitute idol worship.
subject: Scripture-Governed Interdisciplinary Research Article
  topic: section
subject: Scripture-Governed Interdisciplinary Inquiry (Science, social sciences, Arts, Humanities, etc.)
  topic: category
subject:
  topic: keywords
  value: àbá rẹ á gbè ọ́, ekiti expressions, ekiti prayerful paternal blessing, cultural-linguistic re-signification analysis theory, the theory of theological semantic transfiguration, semantic broadening, semantic shift.
creator: Dele Alaba Ilesanmi
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 International Journal of Biblical Research Studies
date: 2026-04-15
publication date: 2026-04-15
starting page: 1
ending page: 39
doi: 10.5281/zenodo.18461735

A Theological Reflection on the Yoruba Cultural Understanding of Ìgbàyí láàárọ̀ and its Relevance to the Christian's Understanding of the Passage of Time
type: item
description: This paper discusses the Yoruba cultural expression Ìgbàyí láàárọ̀ and its relevance to a Christian understanding of the passage of time. While humans often experience frustration or discouragement when favours or opportunities arrive late, the Bible presents divine timing as purposeful, meaningful, and always effective. The work adopts a qualitative, analytical, and theological approach as well as scriptural review and exegesis of passages on timing alongside the cultural understanding that Ìgbàyí láàárọ̀ depicts. It employs comparative analysis to relate biblical concepts of chronos (measured time) and kairos (opportune time) to Yoruba notions of ìgbà and àkókò/àsìkò. The study demonstrates that integrating indigenous cultural insights with scriptural reflection can deepen Christian understanding of timing, responsibility, and responsiveness. Ultimately, Ìgbàyí láàárọ̀ functions as a bridge between cultural experience and theological reflection, highlighting the importance of discerning the right moment for action and cultivating trust in God’s timing. The findings reveal that the concept of passage of time differs, but timing in Scripture is more than a measure of hours or days; it carries profound moral and spiritual significance. Upon recommendations, the author concludes that a proper understanding of timing, as seen in both cultural practice and biblical teaching, provides a fuller way of understanding human actions and divine activity.
subject: Scripture-Governed Interdisciplinary Research Article
  topic: section
subject: Biblical-Theological Inquiry
  topic: category
subject: Ìgbàyí Láàárọ̀
  topic: keywords
subject: Yoruba culture
  topic: keywords
subject: Passage of Time
  topic: keywords
subject: Theological Reflection
  topic: keywords
subject: Christian view of Time
  topic: keywords
creator: Blessing Adegbite
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 International Journal of Biblical Research Studies
date: 2026-02-28
publication date: 2026-02-28
starting page: 1
ending page: 20
doi: 10.5281/zenodo.18817538

From Secular Empiricism to Divine Revelation: Reclaiming Theological Truth through Grounded Truth Theory (GTT)
type: item
description: The dominance of secular empiricism in contemporary research has significantly influenced theological inquiry, often shifting its epistemological foundation from divine revelation to human-centred methodologies. This research note argues that such a shift undermines the authority and sufficiency of Scripture as the primary source of theological truth. The study contends further that theological research has often relied excessively on secular epistemological structures, thereby weakening its ontological grounding in divine revelation. In response to this, Grounded Truth Theory (GTT) is developed as a Scripture-governed methodological framework that reclaims theological research by integrating both inductive and deductive reasoning under the authority of divine revelation. Unlike classical grounded theory, which derives theory from empirical data, GTT grounds all knowledge claims in Scripture as the ultimate standard of truth. This study is grounded in the theoretical assumptions of GTT, which posits that theological truth is revealed rather than constructed and must be validated through Scripture. Thus, a multi-dimensional analytical matrix that evaluates claims across ontological, epistemological, methodological, axiological, theological, practical, and spiritual dimensions is utilised to reclaim theological truth. Thus, GTT offers a corrective paradigm for restoring Scripture to its rightful place as the supreme authority in theological inquiry.
subject: Biblical Research Notes
  topic: section
subject: grounded truth theory, empiricism, divine revelation, reclaiming theological truth, biblical research
  topic: keywords
creator: Dele Alaba Ilesanmi
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 International Journal of Biblical Research Studies
date: 2026-04-30
publication date: 2026-04-30
starting page: 1
ending page: 9
doi: 10.5281/zenodo.19888094

Reconciling Divine Revelation and Empirical Inquiry: A Critical Examination of Science and the Bible
type: item
description: For decades, people have argued about the relationship between science and the Bible. Some scholars believe both are contradictory, while others argue that they are complementary. Some even aver that the Bible completely rejects science. The purpose of this work is to critically explain that both science and the Bible are not enemies but two different fields to understand the same truth about reality. Scientific theology teaches that truth is one. If God is the creator of the world, then science, which is the study of nature, and the Bible, which is the divine revelation to humanity, should not ultimately disagree. The study adopts qualitative research methodology, employing scriptural review as a methodical tool with exegetical analysis. The study also utilizes a descriptive model as a research design. The paper argues that the meaningful dialogue between science and the Bible needs balanced and thoughtful methods that travel beyond old-fashioned conflict-based views. The research findings reveal that the conflict narrative between the Bible and science is exaggerated, not true. The study recommends that scientific findings should be carefully evaluated and not automatically rejected.
subject: Scripture-Governed Interdisciplinary Research Article
  topic: section
subject: divine revelation, empirical inquiry, science, the Bible, scriptural review.
  topic: keywords
creator: Faith Jesudunsin
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 International Journal of Biblical Research Studies
date: 2026-04-30
publication date: 2026-04-30
starting page: 1
ending page: 14
doi: 10.5281/zenodo.19889808

Introducing Grounded Truth Theory: A Scripturally Grounded Methodology for Testing Theological Claims in Biblical-Theological Research
type: item
description: The study of biblical theology and doctrinal claims has historically employed a variety of interpretive and methodological approaches, including historical-critical analysis, literary criticism, theological interpretation, and qualitative social research models, including grounded theory. While these approaches have significantly contributed to biblical scholarship, they often prioritise historical reconstruction, literary structure, or theological reflection without offering a clearly defined methodology for evaluating the truth-value of theological claims in light of Scripture. This paper, therefore, introduces Grounded Truth Theory (GTT) as a scripturally grounded research methodology and new research paradigm for biblical research designed to test theological claims through systematic engagement with biblical revelation. Unlike grounded theory, which generates theoretical constructs inductively from empirical data, Grounded Truth Theory begins with the theological assumption that divine truth already exists within Scripture and must be discovered or discerned, interpreted, and systematised through disciplined scriptural inquiry. Scripture therefore functions simultaneously as the primary data source, interpretive authority, and epistemological validator of theological knowledge. The research integrates scriptural review, theological exegesis, and a multidimensional analytical framework to demonstrate how GTT may function as a methodological paradigm in biblical-theological research studies. The study further engages existing scholarship, compares GTT with prevailing research paradigms, and addresses potential criticisms concerning methodological validity, theological bias, and academic applicability. The findings reveal, among others, that GTT is able to resolve theological tension. The paper concludes that GTT offers a structured approach to discerning theological truth within the framework of biblical revelation.
subject: Scriptural Research Articles
  topic: section
subject: Biblical-Theological Methodology
  topic: category
subject: Biblical-Theological Theory
  topic: category
subject: grounded truth theory, scripturally grounded methodology, testing theological claims, biblical-theological research, multidimensional analytical matrix, exegetical control matrix, scriptural review.
  topic: keywords
creator: Dele Alaba Ilesanmi
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 International Journal of Biblical Research Studies
date: 2026-03-31
publication date: 2026-03-31
starting page: 1
ending page: 58
doi: 10.5281/zenodo.19360473

Bibliogogy: A Scripture-Governed Theory and Practice of Teaching and Learning in Biblical Christian Education
type: item
description: Bibliogogy is a Scripture-governed theory and practice of teaching and learning in which the Bible serves as the ultimate source of authority for instruction. Bibliogogy aims to bring about doctrinal formation, spiritual transformation, growth, and development. The purpose of this study is to develop “Bibliogogy” as a comprehensive Scripture-governed theory of teaching and learning grounded in divine revelation and Spirit-enabled epistemology. Building on emerging theoretical contributions within Biblical Christian Education—particularly the works of Dele Alaba Ilesanmi on Scripture-governed research—Bibliogogy is articulated as a distinct framework in which Scripture determines the ontology of the learner, the epistemology of knowledge, the methodology of instruction, and the teleology of education. The study adopts sola scriptura methodology, employing scriptural review, theo-theoretical construction, and transformational validation. The study constructs a unified theoretical framework for teaching and learning rooted in biblical authority. It further establishes philosophical assumptions, principles, and instructional models inherent within Scripture, including expository, discipleship, parabolic, doctrinal, and transformational models. Findings reveal that Scripture-governed learning produces sustainable transformation and the ability to reproduce spiritual knowledge in others, validating Bibliogogy as a distinct and necessary teaching theory. A detailed comparative analysis with secular pedagogy demonstrates that Bibliogogy is not merely an alternative methodology but a fundamentally different epistemic paradigm. This study concludes with recommendations for institutional adoption, mentorship and discipleship training, further research, and technological integration to extend the reach of Bibliogogy in ministry and theological education.
subject: Scriptural Research Articles
  topic: section
subject: Biblical Research Studies
  topic: category
subject: Biblical-Theological Education
  topic: category
subject: bibliogogy, theogogy, Christogogy, pneumagogy, scripture-governed theory of teaching and learning, biblical christian education, scriptural review.
  topic: keywords
creator: Dele Alaba Ilesanmi
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 International Journal of Biblical Research Studies
date: 2026-03-31
publication date: 2026-03-31
starting page: 1
ending page: 45
doi: 10.5281/zenodo.19360904